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The Backyard Pool: Clear Doesn’t Mean Clean
A crystal-clear swimming pool looks inviting, even potable, on a scorching day. We humans are generally careful not to swallow too much pool water, knowing it’s treated. The same caution, perhaps even more so, should apply to our pets. Pools are maintained with a cocktail of chemicals designed to kill microorganisms and keep the water visually appealing.Chlorine and Other Chemicals
The most common disinfectant is chlorine. While the levels in a well-maintained pool are usually low enough not to cause serious issues from a quick lap or accidental gulp, drinking large amounts can irritate your pet’s esophagus and stomach. Think about how chlorinated water can sometimes irritate your own eyes or skin; it can do the same internally to your pet. Symptoms of ingesting too much chlorinated water can include:- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- General gastrointestinal upset
What About Saltwater Pools?
Saltwater pools are often touted as a gentler alternative. They use a salt chlorine generator to produce chlorine, resulting in lower levels of chloramines (the compounds that cause that typical chlorine smell and irritation). However, they are still chlorinated, and more importantly, they contain salt. While not nearly as salty as the ocean, the salt content is higher than fresh water and can still cause problems if a pet drinks excessive amounts. Too much salt intake can lead to dehydration and potentially salt toxicity, similar to drinking ocean water, though typically less severe.Important Pool Water Reminder: While a tiny sip of pool water is unlikely to harm most healthy pets, it’s definitely not a safe source of hydration. The chemicals, including chlorine and salts in saltwater systems, can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea if consumed in larger quantities. Always prevent your pet from drinking pool water as their main water source.The bottom line for pools: Discourage drinking. Offer fresh water frequently, especially during active play near the pool. If they happen to swallow a bit while retrieving a toy, they’ll likely be fine, but don’t let them treat the pool like a water bowl.
Lakes, Ponds, and Rivers: Nature’s Hidden Dangers
Natural bodies of freshwater seem like a healthier option than chemically treated pools. No chlorine, right? True, but lakes, ponds, and rivers come with their own set of potentially serious risks lurking beneath the surface. Still or slow-moving water, in particular, can be a breeding ground for things you definitely don’t want your pet ingesting.Parasites Galore
Stagnant or slow-moving freshwater can harbor various parasites. Two common culprits known to cause gastrointestinal distress in pets (and people) are Giardia and Cryptosporidium. These microscopic parasites can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and weight loss. They are contracted by drinking contaminated water.Bacterial Threats
Bacteria also thrive in natural water sources. One significant concern is Leptospirosis, a serious bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals (wildlife like rodents, raccoons are common carriers). If contaminated urine gets into the water, pets drinking it can become infected. Leptospirosis can cause kidney damage, liver failure, fever, and lethargy. Vaccinations are available for some strains of Leptospira, which is worth discussing with your veterinarian if your dog frequently swims in or drinks from natural water sources.The Menace of Blue-Green Algae
This is perhaps one of the most critical dangers in lakes and ponds, especially during warm summer months. Blue-green algae, technically cyanobacteria, can produce potent toxins (cyanotoxins) that are extremely dangerous, even fatal, to pets. These blooms often look like scum, foam, or mats on the water’s surface, sometimes resembling spilled paint (often bluish-green, but can be reddish-purple or brown). Never let your pet drink from or even swim in water that looks suspicious or has visible algae blooms. Ingesting even small amounts of water contaminated with toxic cyanobacteria can cause:- Severe vomiting and diarrhea (often bloody)
- Weakness and collapse
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Liver failure
- Death, sometimes within minutes or hours
Pollutants and Runoff
Lakes and rivers can also contain contaminants washed in from surrounding areas. This could include pesticides, herbicides from farms or lawns, industrial waste, or runoff from roads containing oils and chemicals. These substances can be harmful or toxic if ingested. The verdict on lakes and ponds: Exercise extreme caution. While a clear, fast-moving stream might seem safer, risks are always present. Stagnant, murky water or water with visible algae should be strictly off-limits. Always provide fresh water and try to prevent your pet from drinking from these sources.The Ocean: A Salty Hazard
A day at the beach is pure joy for many dogs. Running in the sand, chasing waves – it’s great exercise. But that vast expanse of water poses a significant risk if your pet decides to quench their thirst with it: salt toxicity.Salt Overload (Hypernatremia)
Ocean water has a very high concentration of sodium chloride (salt). When a pet drinks saltwater, the excess salt draws water out of their cells and bloodstream into their intestines, leading to diarrhea and vomiting. More dangerously, the salt gets absorbed into the bloodstream, causing dehydration and raising the blood sodium levels to dangerous heights – a condition called hypernatremia. Signs of salt toxicity include:- Excessive thirst and urination (initially)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy and weakness
- Stumbling or loss of coordination
- Muscle tremors
- Seizures
- Coma
Other Ocean Concerns
Beyond salt, ocean water near populated areas or river mouths can contain bacteria, parasites, and pollutants, although the risks are generally different from stagnant freshwater. Rip currents and marine life also pose physical dangers during swimming, unrelated to drinking.Beach Day Best Practice: Always bring plenty of fresh water and a bowl for your pet when visiting the beach. Actively discourage them from drinking ocean water. If they spend time in the waves, offer fresh water immediately afterward to rinse their mouth and rehydrate. Rinsing their coat with fresh water after swimming also prevents them from ingesting salt by licking their fur.Ocean water conclusion: It’s a definite no for drinking. The high salt content poses a serious health risk. Keep fresh water readily available.
